Talk of the Town

By D.Landry

August 13, 2005 05:42 PM | Link to this

I think this proposed approach may not go far enough, but it would definitely be a step in the right direction. The downtown area has a real chance to be revitalized, the addition of the aquarium and the new World of Coke. However, neither locals or tourists will come or stay for long in the downtown area if they feel unsafe. There are plenty of places these homeless people can go for meals and there is absolutely no reason for them to be harassing other people by asking for money downtown.

By Jack

August 13, 2005 05:44 PM | Link to this

This is a no-brainer. If we want a thriving downtown core (which, to anyone with any common sense, should be essential for a city known for its conventions), then the beggars, homeless need to restricted to other parts of the city. The city council needs to make a decision; do they want to pass up the opportunity to create a nice downtown area (which, by the way, will increase the tax base)? Or, are they more concerned about playing racial games and keeping it as the dump that it is now?

By Nancy

August 13, 2005 06:03 PM | Link to this

Two decades ago, I volunteered at a homeless shelter in NYC. In Atlanta, it is the same crowd, just a different location. I began a bleeding heart and walked away a cynical hard-heart. If drugs weren’t the cause of their condition, then a blatant disregard for responsibility was. The only shelter residents for whom I felt sorry were the women that were taking temporary refuge from abusive spouses or those obviously suffering from mental illness. The rest, over 90%, were content to live as they did because they didn’t want to work. Plain and simple. They preferred begging to working.

At some point, we are all accountable for the choices we make in this life and I believe that the time has come for that accounting in downtown. Too many options are available to the homeless to remove themselves from that condition. If the City Council appears hard-hearted by this measure, I say that they have been left no choice. Like it or not, the blame for this situation lies with the purpetrator, not the problem solvers.

By Jeff

August 13, 2005 06:28 PM | Link to this

Can’t we just move the homeless people from downtown to Sandy Springs?

By Allen Jackson

August 13, 2005 06:33 PM | Link to this

I hate to sound mean. But I think that panhandling should be outlawed. How irritating is it to be asked by multiple peoply block after block day after day for change? Some are even as bold to walk up to dining patios and walk around asking for change. This is ridiculous!! These people need to get jobs!! If then can stand out in the 90 degree heat all day asking for money then they can get a job. Where there is a will there is a way. These people choose to live this way. There are plenty of programs and churches etc..that can help this people. But first they have to help themselves!!

BAN ALL PANHANDLING 24/7 CITYWIDE!!

By Steve Stone

August 13, 2005 07:04 PM | Link to this

Outlaw it. You are not fighting “poverty” by licensing intimidation.

Further, expand the ‘zone’ to include all public gathering places in the city, as well as the CBD. This would include Turner Field, Bobby Dodd, Chastain, Lakewood, etc.

I have read of those who make up to $200 per day with the right ‘technique’. Cut the legs out from under the bums.

If we want the city to rise from the ashes, it cannot have these anchors holding it back.

By mike

August 13, 2005 07:20 PM | Link to this

We need to outlaw panhandling. This is one of the largest factors in why people do not want to come to the downtown area. Who would want to subject their families to that kind of environment? I understand the plight but if Atlanta wants to make the Centennial Park area a family friendly and tourist location then they must clean it up.

By John B.

August 13, 2005 07:53 PM | Link to this

I live in Midtown Atlanta and see panhandlers every day, day-in and day-out. I also would frequent downtown MORE if the city leadership would show some intelligence and backbone and pass a strong ordinance to get these literal “bums” off our streets!

I am disgusted by the audience that the City council gives to these homeless and their “advocates”. If Atlanta is ever to be a well-run, desirable city in which to live, it seems the city leadership would do ALL that they could to encourage desirable people to stay in downtown. The homeless would move on to the next easy place and our community would be better for it. Why can’t the city council get it?? Amazing!!!

John B. Virginia-Highland/Morningside

By Peter

August 13, 2005 08:33 PM | Link to this

The Atlanta City Council members should take a recess and individually walk from City Hall to the downtown area and back. Then vote to end panhandling totally….everywhere. Why must we provide an area where anyone may feel intimidated, harassed, and yes, even threatened. I haven’t been downtown in years, and don’t intend to return until I can feel safe.

By concerned citizen

August 13, 2005 09:02 PM | Link to this

Two actions must be taken. a)Make panhandling illegal for all at all times and places. b)Educate the public about legal ways for the needy to acquire food, shelter, and medical attention through public assistance programs and non-profit organizations. Begging is a cop-out and should not be considered anyone’s “right”.

By David from Augusta

August 13, 2005 09:06 PM | Link to this

Turn them all into deputy sheriffs who have to look out for drug dealers; every one they bust gets them a $50 reward.

By Kevin

August 13, 2005 09:19 PM | Link to this

This past week I was returning from the airport on a Marta train when a woman walks in and announces to the whole train that she is homeless and has no where to go and needed some money. She was obviously intoxicated or high on something. No one responded to her except one person, who gave her a one dollar bill. She grabbed it and walked away with out saying anything. Several other passengers were coming from the airport, including some people who were from out of town and here on a business trip. I kept thinking that these visitors had to be appalled and left our town with a sense that we are over run with drug addicted, alcoholic panhandlers. And they are right. Panhandling should not be allowed anywhere, not just downtown. Atlanta has a serious public relations problem and better act soon. I am ashamed to be from Atlanta.

By chuck

August 13, 2005 09:21 PM | Link to this

Where I come from if you didn’t work you didn’t eat. If we offered work to these panhandlers, they don’t take it. My wife gave one panhandler {claiming he was a disabled vet,{ “who has more benefits then us civilians”}a United way card for Free food, Free Shelter, Free help. The Panhandler took the card, and verbally scoffed my wife even suggesting this idea,he continued his panhandling. We need to quit giving money and offer clothes,shelter, etc. Like the saying goes, Teach a man to fish,and he will learn to catch a fish and provide for himself. …

By Jed

August 13, 2005 10:55 PM | Link to this

Reopen the State Mental Hospital and send the addicted and the mentally ill somewhere that will be cared for and will not be a menace to themselves or others. Put the rest of them up in a temporary shelter and pay them to work cleaning up the filth that others like them have left.

By Mark D. Spivey

August 13, 2005 11:10 PM | Link to this

I usually carry protein bars, and when they ask for money for “food” I just give them a bar instead.

I generally agree with the above statements. But can we effectively outlaw ANYTHING when we don’t have enough cops?

By Woodie

August 13, 2005 11:14 PM | Link to this

Panhandling is a public nuisance. These people are mostly liars. Some are dangerous. They stalk people around public buildings and venues. They disturb MARTA passengers and cause people not to ride trains thereby creating more traffic problems. I ignore these people and I’d like to see everyone do the same. These people should be arrested if spotted. I’ve had several instances of people not wanting to leave me alone. They walk away mad. It is good to leave them with something to think about. Don’t give to these people please. They aren’t children and they can take care of themselves or they wouldn’t be alive on the street.

By Mark D. Spivey

August 13, 2005 11:24 PM | Link to this

I know that woman Kevin is talking about. I ride MARTA every day, and I see her about once a week. She moves from car to car, yelling, “I am homeless and hungry. Give me some money!” She doesn’t even ask, she demands. Families are on the train from the airport and ballgames. Tourists witness this. It’s embarrassing and wrong. Meanwhile I’ve NEVER seen a MARTA cop patrolling the trains after dark, when they NEED to be there. After awhile, you just don’t care about the homeless persons plight. Allen Jackson’s comment was correct, too. I live up in Sandy Springs, and I see a lot of immigrants standing out in 90 degree heat on Roswell Road holding signs, or dressed in costume and waving at cars to promote a business. They are earning money. It’s not a pretty job - in fact it sucks - but it’s honest work. You won’t see them begging. They’ll bust their butt to earn a buck. But the homeless? Will they put forth that kind of effort? Instead they stand on MARTA trains cursing people for money. Whatever happened to washing windshields for change? Let the homeless advocates take them in if they love them so dearly.

By John B.

August 13, 2005 11:57 PM | Link to this

Interesting that most people share the same opinion - hear that City Council???!!!???

I still can’t get over that our “enlightened” Council even gives these homeless bums and their “advocates” the time of day, let alone letting them take up valuable time ranting about their so called “rights” to harass the majority of the tax-paying and law-abiding Atlanta community.

Atlanta has too many pressing issues (sewers, financial matters, etc.) to waste valuable time and resources on these habitual bums! Enact a strong ordinance with teeth in it, and move on to something important - that’s what we elect you City Council members to do! Listen to Mr. Marcus - he’s actually trying to HELP downtown and has some sense about this whole affair.

I like the idea of the old mental hospitals - ship ‘em all to Milledgeville!!!

John B. VA-Highland/Morningside (City of Atlanta Voter/Taxpayer)

By Mitch Miller

August 14, 2005 12:12 AM | Link to this

I lived in Manhattan from 1994 to 2000 and witnessed how the “agressive panhandling” ordinance changed the urban experience. Atlanta should take another page from NYC, just as city gov’t is doing by reforming low income housing projects. Ultimately, the decision to limit panhandling will actually benefit the homeless. More people will visit,live, and work in the downtown/midtown area which means greater tax revenues. Some of these revenues should be used to improve services to the homeless, such as shelters, medical services, job training, public jobs works program, etc.

By Jack

August 14, 2005 12:17 AM | Link to this

ALL panhandling should be outlawed in Atl. MY EYES WORK; I know who’s homeless and who’s not. If I want to give you money I will but you have no right to run up, get in my personal space and proposition me. I recently spent 3 days and 2 nights in NYC and I wasn’t so much as asked for money and they have A TON more homeless than in Atl. but Atl. encourages this behavior. I work in the medical field and I can tell you from experience that well over 90% of the homeless are either drug addicted (alchohol included) or mentally ill. I feel sorry for those who are mentally ill but for the people who just prefer sitting around all day to working or prefer heroin and crack to sobriety… tough cookies!

By SZ

August 14, 2005 12:21 AM | Link to this

Some panhandlers are unable to get jobs because of their past criminal history.

SZ

By Barbie

August 14, 2005 03:42 AM | Link to this

Panhandling… Should be outlawed because most of the people begging, are doing this for drug support. If someone approach me because they are hungry and want food. I will offer to go to a nearby eating place to purchase the meal for them. But if they decline my offer to buy the food for them, and instead; would like for me to just give them the money, then the deal is off!…I them decline to give them anything, because I then recognize that they are lying, to get money for alcohol or drugs, in which I do not support anyone’s habit.

So… ‘In all essence, panhandling should be banned. Suggestions for Business Owners: Hire the homeless to clean up for you, on a low pay scale.

By Michael E. Williams

August 14, 2005 04:32 AM | Link to this

If the City of Atlanta doesn’t watch out they will wind up like New York City who was once sued by an advocacy group over what it and others called a deliberate policy of arresting homeless people instead of trying to help them. If the City is going to ban panhandling in downtown, the homeless will simply move north into Midtown. The city council, Shirley Franklin and Sonny Purdue need to put in place some emergency or temporary housing for the homeless in this city. Of course the city would have the right to set restrictions on who may stay in its shelters, including the right to evict individuals for actions that are not explicitly criminal, like disturbing others or consistently refusing to seek therapy.

By Jon Braswell

August 14, 2005 05:59 AM | Link to this

For over twenty years I have worked, dwelt, and even lived in the shelters and under the bridges of Atlanta. I have also worked as a volunteer chaplain at Fulton County Jail. I have found through my experiences as a vagabond evangelist to the homeless. That some men and women will choose no responsibility over responsibility, play over work, and drugs and alcohol over sweet tea. in conclusion let me leave you with this phrase ” Few are crazy - Most are lazy ” STOP PANHANDLING !!! Jon Braswell, Roswell, Georgia

By Ron Robinson

August 14, 2005 06:15 AM | Link to this

By robert d hickman

August 14, 2005 08:01 AM | Link to this

I offer the three following solutions to rid every city of panhandling and in this order:

P.S. Do the surrounding areas have bus service to drop the homeless off in downtown Atlanta? If so, it may be the only time they support public transportation.

By Scott

August 14, 2005 08:34 AM | Link to this

While I feel most people are empathetic about the plight of truly “homeless” people, it’s clear that Atlanta’s current policies are hurting the city and not really helping those in need. The city’s results in this matter over the past couple of decades is obvious. Anyone who visits the central city district and makes comparisons to other comparable cities with panhandling policies in place is obvious. This is just one of several significant issues the city should address. However, this could certainly be a catalyst to move things forward.

By Donnie S

August 14, 2005 08:35 AM | Link to this

These people are homeless because of the choices they have mage in their lifes. It is nobodys fault but their own. Don’t reward them for their bad choices. You will just draw more of them here.

By Bobb

August 14, 2005 08:35 AM | Link to this

If these folks can live on panhandling wages might it possible to find them jobs paying the same? Maybe those jobs that Americans supposedly won’t take but immigrant workers will? If so, then first pass a law outlawing panhandling everywhere. Next, offer the newly unemployed panhandlers an option: a chance to work productively at something or be kept off the streets. Behave responsibly or face up to the consequences. It’s a basic principal of rearing children. Did I lose most of you with that last one?

By Andrew

August 14, 2005 08:54 AM | Link to this

Why should all 430,000 residents of the City of Atlanta suffer because of laziness and poor lifestyle choices made early on by homeless men and women? City Council needs to get real. They are hurting their city by their indecisiveness. We want a healthy donwtown and the time in now! The 24/7 Gateway homeless shelter just opened in downtown so there is a place for them to go. City Council, if you are reading this, it’s time for you to act! Ban panhandling now!!!!

By Tim Teasley

August 14, 2005 09:03 AM | Link to this

In downtown Chicago, the homeless aren’t a presence. Fast food establishments lock their bathroom doors, and the cops keep the beggars away from tourists, businesses, and working people. It’s beautiful.

By Bob

August 14, 2005 09:05 AM | Link to this

As a frequent out of town business visitor I have stopped staying midtown because of the beggars and panhandlers who approach at all hours. I simply don’t feel safe. I don’t know when I will be the victim of street crime or worse. I think that Atlanta does not care about out of town business people or weekend visitors for that fact and just try to rationalize a very bad situation by some sociological excuse. Lots of money is lost to businesses and now I schedule meetings, lodging, and meal functions out in the suburbs where I and my people feel safer and not threatened. Please remove these people from the streets. They remain because no one does anything to them except feed them and let them stay.

By Dean Steele

August 14, 2005 09:07 AM | Link to this

Poverty must be be outlawed! Any one without the means to dress with the propper attire, or to act in accordance to the norms of our culture should be removed to a holding area designated for such outcasts. No one should be allowed to beg for food, because doing so casts aspersion on the wellborn of the area, who would never stoop to such outrageous behavior. In addition, a daily bath must be required of all persons who find themselves in the tourist sector. Our Presindent has stated that he wants everyone to have a good job, so what is our problem? Give everyone a job, and the problem is solved!

By holly

August 14, 2005 09:31 AM | Link to this

I work downtown and I see the panhandlers all over but what I also have witnessed is all the companies that need help so why don’t someone gather up the homeless and put them in contact with the businesses that need help. There was all types of work needed when Megafest came thru, now the Falcons season has started. Yes there is definitely work downtown.

By Gene A Crafton

August 14, 2005 09:53 AM | Link to this

On a recent Christmas trip to Atlanta, my wife and I walked down Peachtree Street from the High Museum to the Fox. What a mistake! I was not prepared for the onslaught of homeless people wanting to give me direction or simply just begging for money. After a few block, we became uncomfortable and quickly went back to the hotel. This Christmas we will not be in Atlanta and will visit where we are not harrassed by the dredges of Atlanta. Does anyone see a lesson is this story?

By jeffrey

August 14, 2005 10:09 AM | Link to this

I’m amazed at the simplistic thinking demonstrated in this forum.

Here’s some questions to consider:

Exactly how will this ordinance be enforced? If a beggar asks me for money, am I then supposed to dash off in search of a cop to apply the law? Or will all hobos be outfitted with recording devices, so that thier conversations can be monitored?

If a beggar is arrested under this new law, how long will he be locked up? (Hint: Its a misdemeanor charge.)

Most “bums” have already been arrested multiple times. How will the threat of more arrests cause them to change thier behavior?

Is the problem actually the act of begging? Or is the problem that a lot of people beleive that “bums” and the “homeless” should be swept under the rug and kept out of view?

By Rick

August 14, 2005 10:19 AM | Link to this

I worked in the downtown area for over 3 years. Most of the panhandlers I encountered were aggressive and seemed offended when you did not give them the money you “worked” for. I found that simply looking them directly in the eye and saying a FIRM “No” worked best. I was called vulgar names for refusing to give them money and did not feel safe at times. I heard so many creative stories..one asked for a ride in my car and when I said “No”, he actually asked for cabfare!!! I work for my family not for aggressive street beggars. I do empathize with some of their situations, but I think the majority of them are just lazy! Most of them seem to be able bodied men who should be looking for a job instead of expecting hard-working people to simply give them money. The Lord helps those who help themselves!

By Jason

August 14, 2005 11:26 AM | Link to this

I lived and worked downtown for four years. Walking to work each day exposed me to many panhandlers. While I’m not an authority, I did get to know some of these guys. Each is a regular person with a story. Some guys would make great business men if they lived in another time and place. But others just have emotional probelms and can’t do much else. My personal bottom line is that they’re better off if I give to charity rather than nickel-and-diming them into subsistence begging. It’s kind of like the “don’t feed the animals” sign at the zoo. Throwing them a peanut may make you feel good for a minute, but it just confuses them and disrupts their health.

By Marc

August 14, 2005 11:53 AM | Link to this

Though they might be “good” people and some not using the money they recieve to buy drugs or alcohol, They are a public nuisance and need not be shifted from one section of town to another but a permanent removal off the streets is what is needed. Not only is it an eye sore to everyone in Atlanta but it also becomes a danger when some start to go too far when they become desperate enough. The city needs to ban it permanently,crack down on people living on the streets and under bridges. During the great depression they had programs for people to work and build theyre own homes on unused or run down property. The ones who were incapable of doing phyiscal labor were trained in whatever means they could comprehend to make a living, At least an effort. Atlanta has plenty of run down buildings and areas that could be converted for those willing to make the effort. Think about it Mayor Franklin, If this worked you would be the Mayor who not only cleared out the homeless but made them useful citizens once again.

By james allen

August 14, 2005 11:54 AM | Link to this

I dont think it will solve the problem as most major cities have the same problem which creates another problem for city officials.I am used to it and it can be bothersome but be guided by your heart or for the most part engage in conversation for a brief moment and empower or encourage them to do better. Soup kitchens are not the answer nor shelters..they need encoragement for the most part

By Shirley Ashanti

August 14, 2005 11:54 AM | Link to this

How many of these so-called homeless panhandlers are registered voters? Do you need an address to be a registered voter? If they are not voters, why is the City Council taking up an issue related to people who cannot vote? Is it because voting citizens are complaining? Then do something about it. If they are registered, then they are not homeless. They are liars. C’mon, City Council, get with it. Just put on regular clothes and walk around several blocks anywhere in Atlanta, not just downtown. Begging has become a science, no, art form that is a true pain in the butt. I don’t know what the answer is other than I am sick of them. Some ride bikes slowly behind you begging, begging, begging and only leave when you attempt to knock them off the bike. A real nuisance. Perhaps we should stop funding the shelters and soup kitchens and free medical care programs since we have to be be victimized by this behavior. At least then they would have a real reason to panhandle.

By John Ellison

August 14, 2005 12:13 PM | Link to this

Convert the closed military installations to homeless shelters. There are already barracks with bunk beds, a mess hall, medical facilities, a jail, stores, shuttle buses, a post office with P.O. boxes, recreational venues, etc. The residents could earn money by working in the kitchen, cutting grass, picking up litter, etc. Volunteers who want to help the residents could work where needed. A center could be set up to receive and distribute donations of food, clothing, money, etc. Classes could be offered to help prepare the residents for gainful employment. If the facilities are good enough for our military personnel, it should be good enough for the homeless.

By HHG3LAW

August 14, 2005 12:25 PM | Link to this

On a recent trip to San Francisco, I noticed that at the hotel’s main desk was posted a discreet note that said, in essence, “Please do not give money to panhandlers as it only increases our problems with them when you do.” Although I work downtown, and have for almost 20 years, I don’t know if our hotels have such notices, but if they don’t, I would suggest that they post something like the ones in San Francisco.

By carole

August 14, 2005 12:53 PM | Link to this

No one wants to be bothered by the homeless. This is something everyone wants to see just go away. Lets deal with the root problem - why are these people homeless to begin with? I would venture to say a good amount of the homeless are mentally ill. Why are they on the street to begin with? Because there is no place else to put them! They have no choice but to live on the street and survive by there means. Not that I think us, the workers, need to support these people. We don’t. If these people aren’t on the streets, they are in prison, that’s the only place for them to go. Why not re-open institutions for the troubled instead of pouring money into the prison system? It is impossible to get free mental health care. What are these people supposed to do? Dust themselves off and go get a great job with benefits so they can get the treatment they need? Hello! They can’t! You have to look at the source of the problem instead of having this “let them eat cake” attitude.

By Sam Clapp

August 14, 2005 12:55 PM | Link to this

Why doesn’t Atlanta institute one of the “newspaper by/from the homeless” programs that cities like Seattle and Chicago have? Each week, homeless people in these cities produce a tabloid-sized news weekly, and then other homeless people sell them for a small profit of their own. People authorized to sell the paper have a license which they must display and produce for anyone to see. All panhandling is banned, except for paper sales. So the homeless people work for what they earn by selling the paper.

From the “consumer” perspective, if you buy a $.50 paper every week and carry it around with you to show that you have already bought one, the other salespeople are trained not to pester you about it (and if they do, they can lose their license).

IMHO, it’s a program that liberals and conservatives could get behind, because it is “help” for the homeless on the one hand, but it’s help through self-actualizing work, on the other.

By Michael

August 14, 2005 01:10 PM | Link to this

I was in Boston about a month ago on a Sunday afternoon and didn’t notice much panhandling at all in the downtown area. Then I realized that it wasn’t because panhandlers were banned or anything like that, it was because there were so many tourists packing the streets that they just blended in. It makes you wonder if the premise that that it’s the panhandlers that are keeping the tourists away from Downtown Atlanta, might be a bit flawed.

By Brad

August 14, 2005 01:55 PM | Link to this

These people are homeless for some reason. Some are actual victims of the system, while many more are there because of the choices they made. But that is not the point. Regardless of “the way they became homeless”, we shouldn’t push them aside and tell them to figure it out for themselves. These people are no less significant as the business executives and lawyers walking the streets of downtown - its just that their situation is more pathetic. I’m not some bleeding heart liberal who doesn’t believe in personal accountability. I just believe that these people have just as much dignity as people with homes - just for the fact that they are people like you and me, not animals. So I believe their plight is ours. Help a fellow man and help the human race. But if you’re going to give, do it the right way. Donate to a homeless charity so your money doesn’t go to waste.

By Bobby Woodard

August 14, 2005 01:57 PM | Link to this

When will there be a day when we start talking about prevention, instead of reaction? This new policy is nothing more than a reaction to a problem that has existed in Atlanta for years. This ordinance will not make the problem of panhandling go away. This simplistic thinking and flawed policy will surely do more harm than it will do good. instead of sweeping the problem under the rug, lets figure out solution so that people will not draft into homeless. (I.e. Job training, recruitment, affordable housing, and adaquate healthcare)

By Gary

August 14, 2005 02:00 PM | Link to this

Bring back the chain gang like we had in the old days,put them on it for a month or so and they’d move on out of Atlanta. People going to work should not have to put up with bums.

By Rob

August 14, 2005 02:15 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that most of the homeless seeking assistance really need help. People begging for money cause most other people to avoid areas know to attract homeless people.

I think a reasonable solution is to remove these people and take them somewhere that will give them shelter and food. I don’t want people begging from me but I don’t like the idea of locking them up. If they don’t like the shelter because there are rules, etc. that is their choice. But the rest of us should also have the opportunity to use downtown Atlanta without being exposed to people begging for money. It would not bother me at all to see police taking beggars to a shelter where they could eat and have a safe place to sleep. Surveillance cameras are an easy way to observe people begging. Then give them a free ride. First, second and maybe third time their choices are a shelter or jail. After that I guess they need to talk with a judge. If we can video traffic intersections we can certainly monitor most of our city streets in heavily congested areas like the new aquarium, Coke, etc.

By Renee

August 14, 2005 02:58 PM | Link to this

Panhanders are a boil on society and a disgrace to our city. Panhandlers need to get off their lazy butts and get a real job and leave hard-working folks alone. There is no excuse for this type of behavior and it must be stopped. The people who give money to these lazy, pathetic leaches are ignorant and will continue to fuel the problem by giving a hand-out. I do not work M-F 9-5, go to school every day, and make my own living so I can turn around and give a hand-out to some boozing drug addict that won’t do anything for themselves. They should all be carted off and shipping to another country.

By Nancy

August 14, 2005 03:48 PM | Link to this

To everyone who keeps saying, “find them jobs,” you are not reading the postings of people like me. I worked with the homeless and THEY DON’T WANT JOBS. “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.”

Your rantings that us mean people who support the ban measure, the dastardly City, and those heartless businessness aren’t doing enough to give them a hand up don’t make any sense if you face the reality that the Homeless don’t want to work at anything other than begging.

I am at a loss to explain why you won’t see the reality that they have abdicated all personal responsibility beyond asking a stranger on the street for money - sometimes agressively.

I used to be you. I used to think that there wasn’t enough help for them until I worked for them and tried myself to help them help themselves. Finally, I gave up, realizing that they only wanted to use me and others like me. It is a cold cruel world, especially when you don’t want to live by anyone’s rules but your own.

By Nancy

August 14, 2005 03:54 PM | Link to this

And to Jeffrey, you enforce it by moving them - forceably if necessary. You give them bus tickets out of town and after that, it is their responsibility to deal with their lives. If this sounds harsh to you, you are right, it is. Then again, “tough love” is harsh. It means exactly what it says.

Or, we could ship them all over to your house if you are that worried about their welfare.

By Evan

August 14, 2005 04:36 PM | Link to this

I gave a homeless person an extra ticket to WHITESNAKE that I had and he threw it in the trash.

By Bill Mizzell

August 14, 2005 05:14 PM | Link to this

I feel very pressured on a daily basis, anywhere I go in Atlanta, by beggers. If these people can beg for money all day long, they can also work. Thousands of people move to Atlanta from all over the world to get jobs. Why can’t these people also do the same? If everyone stops giving them money, they will have to get a job. Help is available, just not in the way of standing in the streets running off tourists.

By Keith Clayborne

August 14, 2005 05:15 PM | Link to this

I frequently visit downtown Atlanta and own a second home there. The proliferance of panhandling and barbaric behavior has taken the area down the tubes. We’re just tired of these characters defecating and urinating at our front door and harrassing everyone. It’s not a job, race, or homeless issue. It’s a quality of life issue not to mention the toll it’s taking on the economic life of downtown Atlanta.

By kate

August 14, 2005 05:25 PM | Link to this

How do you walk past a person who is homeless and not feel that your own humanity is being degraded? It is not our place to assume that we know the life circumstances of a person that we simply walk by, though it is difficult not to do so. I walk by white men in business suits every day and honestly catch myself assuming that they are all evil corporate pigs, but that is not the way i want to live my life so i try to keep myself in check. No matter why they are poor, the poor are just as human as you and i. In the scope of your life, will it really matter whether or not you give a dollar to someone who says they are hungry? Giving the change i have in my pocket to the person that asks for it is certainly not an answer to homelessness, but it is inhumane not to do so.

By Brison

August 14, 2005 05:57 PM | Link to this

Panhandling is not acceptable, and has been successfully managed or eliminated by other cities. Not only is it bad for Atlanta business, public safety, and the image of our city, it short-changes our tax base (even if only modestly). If begging was not lucrative to some degree, then I doubt that you would see the same panhandlers on the streets for years / decades.

Recently I was approached in a parking lot in Cobb County by a woman with her small boy. She had a sob story about her apartment burning down. I gave her money, only to be approached by her again several hours later at Lenox Square in Fulton County, but with a completely different sob story the second time. What a poor example that mother is setting for her child – a beggar in training!

By Mike E.

August 14, 2005 06:17 PM | Link to this

Reading all this hate directed at the insane and the homeless, I can’t help but feeling that Americans have become a truly evil people.

By carol jones

August 14, 2005 07:04 PM | Link to this

I agree that putting a curfew time on panhandling will help - The are a lot and I mean a lot of homeless people and families in Atl. They need to eat too. You have to admit that a lot are beggars but in reading your story and living around atlanta - some do have a style about themselves

By John B.

August 14, 2005 08:22 PM | Link to this

Mike E….

I don’t “evil” is the right word - tired - yes, maybe but not evil…

Just remember sloth is one of the seven deadly sins. Help those who need help, yes - and this city has the resources and systems already in place to do so, but let’s get real - there is a segment of these people who CHOOSE TO REMAIN in their present situation and are not interested in bettering themselves. None of us who pay taxes in this city and work hard for a living need to be burdened by their wrong choices in life.

The city council needs to step up to the plate, do the right thing, and BAN PANHANDLING!! Spokespeople for the rank and file city police officers have said they also support such an ordinance and are ready to enforce it - they just need the right direction from city leadership..

John B. (City of ATL taxpayer and voter..)

By Jerry Tyler

August 14, 2005 08:49 PM | Link to this

This law is clearly designed to enhance and protect the business interests within that zone. Those businesses are receiving an extra service not provided to a business even across the street. The businesses within the zone should pay for the extra services they receive, and the fees collected should go towards the costs of enforcement as well as invested in developing resources to minimize the causes of panhandling.

By Lauren

August 14, 2005 09:23 PM | Link to this

Most of you missing the point which Nancy seems to be making. The average person thinks that panhandlers make about $10-20 a day. WRONG! I had a family member who was a professional panhandler. He didn’t want to work because he didn’t have to! He made hundreds of dollars a day panhandling! A three-hundred-dollar day was pretty normal. Five hundred wasn’t all that rare, either.

Think about it. Most people don’t throw in one dollar, but five, ten and sometimes twenty (mostly the vacationers and conference attendees). A handful of tens and twenties adds up quickly and they can go and spend the money — TAX FREE — on whatever they want.

That’s why the panhandlers are so angry that the most lucrative areas are the ones being cut off to them. The city is not saying they can’t panhandle; they’re just limiting the areas where they can go. The ones who scream loudly from their bullhorns are fully aware that the typical panhandler makes more money than many legitimate workers. But, they also know that if they scream loudly enough they will get the average Joe to feel sorry for them with the result being that City Hall will back down. Don’t back down, Shirley!

These people have many options open to them through various charitable agencies set up to help them. Unfortunately, most these agencies also expect these people to take some intitative and pride in themselves. The professional panhandler doesn’t want their help because they don’t want to have to work for a living.

It is IMPERATIVE that people understand that handing them a $10 or $20 bill is NOT helping them. It is only giving them a viable option that looks a whole lot better than working for a living!

Lauren

By Richard Wilson

August 14, 2005 10:02 PM | Link to this

If the city council wants my money to be spent downtown they would be wise to pass a panhandling ordinance. How in the world can a city let a few hundred people (panhandlers) rule this city.

By Alice Pickett

August 14, 2005 10:03 PM | Link to this

I have given tours of the Downtown Historic Buildings for six years for the Atlanta Preservation Center. I also have two other jobs, just in case you assume I am a lady of leisure. As I explain to tour takers that the Woodruff Park was give to Atlanta by the bonevolent Coca Cola Magnate, Robert Woodruff, I see the tourees look confused. They realize the park has been usurped for another purpose. They are from all over the world and their perspective is very broad, usually liberal, but they do not understand why the park is obviously a place that other people are not welcome. Most people are from cities like Chicago, New York, or Europe where minorities are tolerated by do not dominate a sector of the city. Further I am embarassed as hucksters press them for money. “We are touring, I say”, and dismiss the intruders. Atlanta has always fed the poor. These people represent another group and no one can truly help them unless they want to change. They need to go to the new 24/7 Gateway Center designed to give more than just a handout. I truly care for their return to society, but I would never give them money. People who throw money at the homeless and indigent are just ignoring their plight and trying to make themselves feel good. Rather than give money, they should volunteer at their church or the Gateway Center. For most people this is too hard; it is much easier to find a little change in their pockets.

By Richard

August 14, 2005 10:11 PM | Link to this

I think I need to go down to city hall and lurk around tent city and ask each and everyone of those people for a quarter.

By Gary McClendon

August 14, 2005 10:35 PM | Link to this

The whole issue of panhandling in the downtown corridor is being exploited by those who which to gain from being the public face of the debate. The law should be passed with no consideration to those who are advocating the homeless have a right to beg when and wherever they choose. The leadership of this city has gone the extra mile trying to find a balance between protecting business and allowing beggars to have freedom of expression. There is no right to destroy the livelihood of business owners nor is there a right to harass people all over the city. Enough of catering to a small loud minority. Derelicts should not be allowed to beg and sleep in the center of the city. Trust me, those vocal advocates of the homeless nor are the homeless looking for a solution. They much prefer to hold the city hostage and think that the world owes them something. I’ve fed and clothed the homeless in the downtown area and is sympathetic to there plight, but allowing everyone to enjoy there experience downtown free of harassment is just the right thing regardless of the rhetoric.

By David Lardner

August 14, 2005 10:40 PM | Link to this

It is almost insulting that this is something that is being debated. In an age where there is plenty of food, lots of money and small minority in the city can’t get any of either, I am stunned that the city that’s “too busy to hate” would turn its back on these people. In other words, if you vote to make begging against the law, you’d better open your wallet wide and fund organizations that will take care of them.

The people of Atlanta should look seriously at who they have voted into office…and make better, more humanitarian choices next time.

By Hunter

August 14, 2005 10:51 PM | Link to this

People who are against panhandling, obviously have never been in a bad spot before. It is very easy to be high & mighty & critical of others down on their luck. Would Mr. shirt & tie offer a job to a panhandler who does not have a permanent adress or phone number? I doubt it. Help these people get a job rather than treat them as crimminals for being poor.

By Ron R

August 15, 2005 12:56 AM | Link to this

I find it surprising how mean we are when we say we do not want to be hassled, threatened or anything from these people. I have rights too and my right is to be able to walk down a street hassle free. My right does not take second place to theirs.

All these protestors at city hall saying how this law is wrong, one quick question? While your campaigning for them how much actual money from your pocket have you donated. Why are you not handing money out to every one of them. Could it be because you have the right to keep your own money?

By Wilson

August 15, 2005 01:01 AM | Link to this

Panhandlers don’t care about the city’s image, they only care about themselves. I know a few criminals that feel the same way. I just sent a few to jail not long ago for trying to intimidate me and rob me - they approached me like a panhandler. Each had several prior convictions. The incident happened downtown. I work downtown and have experienced several weeks where I’ve been asked for money 2-3 times a day for an entire week. I want some privacy back. And a safer downtown near Georgia State University, Woodruff Park and 5 points Marta station.

By Nicolette

August 15, 2005 02:28 AM | Link to this

Set up more medical services, public job works programs and shelters (There are more unoccupied buildings in Atlanta than there is in Iraq.) Enlist the services of businesses that would volunteer services, supplies, and materials…eg the medical community, architects, retailers, dentists,home improvement centers, fashion designers, interior designers, restaurants, developers, fitness centers, rehabilitation centers, churches, hotels, learning centers, musicians, etc., There could be a city-wide directory that could be sold for a nominal fee (sold by the homeless with a valid license) that would list these contributers and how they helped in making the City of Atlanta one the best places to live and visit.(Great marketing for them)
The aggressive panhandling in downtown Atlanta and on MARTA has gone past tolerable. Don’t be afraid to do what is right for the hard-working taxpayers of Atlanta. I’m sure we can also use the tourist revenue.

Something must be done ! We are fading fast. Make us proud!

By Jon Avery

August 15, 2005 04:15 AM | Link to this

I live in the city of Atlanta. I do business downtown, just two miles from my home. And panhandling bothers me.

However, the best way I have dealt with panhandling is to treat the panhandler like a human being. When I am asked for change I say something like, “I can’t spare any today” if I don’t want to give. I rarely give.

Me saying “I have no change to spare today” usually does the trick. Some panhandlers get more aggressive. With those I pull my cell out and say “the police are a phone call away.”

Panhandling will never be eliminated from Atlanta; it can only be managed. Why not put the stops on those that do not take no for an answer? Surely the word will get around that Atlanta will not tolerate aggressive panhandling. And a reasonable law will remain compassionate to the homeless and rationale to business and homeowners.

Neither of the extreme sides in this argument are correct.

By PoliticalMan

August 15, 2005 04:32 AM | Link to this

Guess what, aberrant behavior and conditions will be increasing in our off-shoring, Wal-mart future. We, as a society, have made the choices. Sink or swim - that’s our motto. The homeless should make us all feel good: we are achievers - the select. If you cannot achieve - beg.

By katie

August 15, 2005 06:49 AM | Link to this

The solution to panhandling is simple. If people stop giving them money they will go away. They only stay in places where getting money is easy. Many of these homeless people don’t want help so to offer it to them is pointless. There will always be a small percentage of people who ‘make our streets’ unsafe, that’s where the police come in. For those that are just poor, there is help for them. There is no 100% cure for this problem and there never will be. I sure wish people would “think” before commenting such ignorance.

By PC

August 15, 2005 07:03 AM | Link to this

Everybody that thinks it’s unfair to the homeless to not be allowed to harass people should adopt a homeless person and send money to them. These sponsors will also take responsibility for all their medical bills, food, shelter and crime. If protesters who are against the non panhandling law are not willing to support homeless people with their time and money then their protests are not valid.

By Brenda Brown

August 15, 2005 07:10 AM | Link to this

Pandhandling is a problem because many people (it seems mostly black men) are placed in prison and when they are released there are no jobs for them and they end up on the streets like dogs. The system has helped make it this way on purpose. Why not use some of the tax money the country, states and cities collect and be determined to help these people reenter society. If they have paid for their crimes and been released, they should not have to continue to pay by living like animals and scaring other citizens. It is scary to be approached by a dirty person on the streets asking for handouts. They should be made to wash their body, clean up and seek and obtain employment. If nothing else the city should establish a work program where the homeless are made to work cleaning up the city. There are miles of debris and filth along our highways. Put them to work and help them gain self-confidence. A working man/work should not have to beg.

By KR

August 15, 2005 07:11 AM | Link to this

While working downtown a man with very red eyes approached me wanting $3.00 bed fee for the shelter where he was staying. He said his eyes were red from crying so much,(not swollen), DUH. I wasn’t fooled. He said he had just been asked to leave the food count at Peachtree Center because he was bugging folks. He said he was hungry. I made him walk with me to the pizza stand and I bought him a pizza slice and a coke. He then tried to peddle the pizza and coke to passer bys so he could get cash. People have since that time made fun of me by asking me if I would supply them dinner. I have no sympathy for these people except in rare circumstances when a person is mentally challenged or spousal abuse.

By pat

August 15, 2005 07:16 AM | Link to this

Two suggestions: 1) let the homeless who live on the streets beg with a sign and a cup - no talking or touching. 2) Put back the public mental hospitals Reagan eliminated to save money. Obviously that move cost us in other areas.

By Fisher

August 15, 2005 08:23 AM | Link to this

Overcome ‘PANHANDLING’ (begging) by the following methods:

By scott

August 15, 2005 08:38 AM | Link to this

I am an Atlanta native who travels to Chicago for business for over 8 years. Downtown Chicago is a pleasure to visit, shop, eat and live because of heavy police involvement and absolutely no panhandlers allowed. Atlanta City leaders want to favor the handful of malcontents who contribute nothing vs. taxpaying citizens and vistors who could make it a wonderful place to visit. After 44 years, I am still hesitant to take the family to many downtown venues. Just leaving a Braves game in the 7th inning is impossible due to agressive panhamdling in the lots in front of the APD.

By Kevin

August 15, 2005 08:41 AM | Link to this

Panhandlers are aggressive and sometimes downright scary. They should not be allowed downtown anywhere, anytime. Students attending workshops in downtown Atlanta are afraid to go out. The city should appeal for funding of shelters, and the state and nation should take a hard look at the causes of homelessness and then create solutions that target the real need—probably mental health and drug problems.

By PM

August 15, 2005 09:15 AM | Link to this

This appears to be another case of us conveniently sweeping our ills under the rug while we invite in our “spending” guest. Yes, let’s put our retarded childen in the closet and spuce up the living room. No need to get them treatment and and let people know that we love “all” of our family members. If we just get rid of them our guest will be none the wiser that this entire family is dsyfuntional. Well, Bernie Marcus, father knows best!

By pj

August 15, 2005 09:35 AM | Link to this

As a downtown resident I am aggressively panhandled everyday BUT I HAVE NEVER BEEN PANHANDLED BY A HOMELESS PERSON. Oh, I’ve had a homeless ask for ‘some help’ or ‘some food’ but NEVER have had the type of aggressive ‘in-your-face’ with trash talk I get from the aggressive panhandlers. AND the aggressive panhandlers ARE NOT HOMELESS! I’ve even seen them drive their cars and park them and begin to panhandle. I’ve seen them scam visitors with parking and tell outlandish stories to get money. Will they leave downtown with the passing of the ordinance? YES. Will they go someplace else? ONLY if the SOMEPLACE ELSE has visitors and conventioneers (the ‘suckers’ as the panhandlers call them). Do the homeless have a place to go to become ‘unhomeless’? YES…CHECK OUT THE NEW GATEWAY CENTER. The city IS helping the homeless. Help is with meals, showers, places to sleep AND job training, finding homes, medical care, drug rehab, mental health assistance, etc.. Don’t confuse the issue….aggressive panhandlers are NOT the homeless. The media has NOT done its homework on this issue….come to my neighborhood and I’ll show you! (Fairlie Poplar District)

By patsy

August 15, 2005 09:47 AM | Link to this

Did you know that the GA DOT obtained a $350,000 grant to hire people to clean up the highways around our city/state? (Thank you Mary Norwood) The deal is that $300,000 of the money MUST be to hire the homeless for this project! Haven’t heard the media bring this up…wonder why? IMagine….jobs FOR the homeless! Someone please tell the Task Force for the Homeless!!! Also….has the media given fair time to the new Gateway Center? It’s a total package homeless center that provides not only meals, showers, clean clothes and a bed BUT also provides job training, access to community services, a chance to become UN-homeless. AND it’s run BY THE CITY! BUT NO….we only hear about the homeless needing jobs at the aquarium or that the city does nothing for the homeless. Please….let’s educate the public. Help is HERE….just reach out and grab it! The news media needs to help get the word out. THEN, get the non-homeless aggressive panhandlers out of here!

By PM

August 15, 2005 10:07 AM | Link to this

Well then great. Let’s ban “AGGRESSIVE PANHANDLING.” I am in Farlie Poplar at least twice a week and yes some panhandlers are offputting. But just as they are foul, I blow them off. I’d be happy to be rid of them. But they are the vocal few in my experience.

The larger problem here is employment, living wages, education and affordable housing. There is a fundamental shift here in the notion that full employment is anywhere near attainable. We have stopped trying.

The rug isn’t big enough any more.

By Ruth Conner

August 15, 2005 10:47 AM | Link to this

San Francisco had the same problems Atlanta has. They have taken panhandling away from center city and have started centers to help people who really have problems and not faking it. They won’t allow sleeping around the city on sidewalks anymore either, but are providing real shelters for them. Why not check with SF and see how they did this??

By Steve

August 15, 2005 10:57 AM | Link to this

About one-third of the adult homeless population have served their country in the Armed Services. On any given day, as many as 200,000 veterans (male and female) are living on the streets or in shelters, and perhaps twice as many experience homelessness at some point during the course of a year.

There are more Viet-Nam vets on the streets than the total number of soldiers who died in that war.

Sometimes when you experience horrible things, you can never come back and get a “normal” life again.

Under this law, will I be arrested if I choose to give to these people.

It seems as though that would be a violation of my first amendment rights in that my religion teaches me that what I do for the “least of my brethren” is what I do for God.

By PM

August 15, 2005 10:59 AM | Link to this

LAST POST. Let’s see. $350,000. That will take $75,000 to administer, leaving $275,000 for slaries (if that). So at minimun wage that will (rounded off) remove 25.7 people from the ranks of the unemployed and give them a wage that they are sure to remain homeless on.

Big Whoop! Please think this through before you post.

By Tracy

August 15, 2005 12:01 PM | Link to this

I moved my business from Peachtree Center because I could not walk from my parking garage to the building without being panhandled. What everyone needs to understand is this is not about jobs. These people have jobs and their jobs are to panhandle.

When I moved to Atlanta 20 years ago, downtown was still a place to go. I would take visiting friends to shop downtown. Now it is a disgrace. Empty storefronts with panhandlers and winos — beautiful.

I drive from midtown almost every day down Courtland to the gym at Peachtree Center. Have any of you noticed all the bums that hang out on Courtland? How is all that loitering considered legal. It is frightening.

Panhandling isn’t all that needs to be banned. We need a police force that is equipped to be as aggressive as the bums and panhandlers are.

As a taxpayer whose potholes haven’t been fixed and whose sewer system and infrastructure is in disrepair, I doubt that will happen anytime soon. I can’t wait to retire away from what is becoming a miserable city because of our continuing failure to elect officials who have any interest in doing what is best for the city.

By Darryl

August 15, 2005 12:12 PM | Link to this

I think the pandhandling law needs to be adopted because there are some homeless people who are “agressive” with their panhandling and that’s what making it bad on those who are asking for money in a polite, positive way.

As for me, if someone comes up asking me for money to get them something to eat, I would offer to buy them something from the local fast food restaurant instead of giving them the money, because some of the homeless would ask for money for food, but use the money to buy drugs and alcohol.

If anyone refuses my offer to buy them something to eat, then I know the money is not going to be used for what they’re asking for. I rather you be honest with me about your financial needs and not try to decive me.

By RWH

August 15, 2005 12:27 PM | Link to this

Those people who are asking for this or that may actually have the needs to panhandle. Some do it because they live that way. To make excuse is not for any of us; what the city, and its citizens needs to do…is find a moral way to get people help. Let’s not mentioned any shelters, nor soup lines because that’s panhandling too. The city must clean up panhandling accross the board instead of certain parts of the city because tourism might decline, or people are afraid to go over here or there. Enforcing panhandling is much to late and people who in position to vote on this issue will have to consider a whole lot factors. If panhandling becomes a enforceable ordance, then living on the steets falls under that ordance which the city will be accountable for all of its homeless people. This way, controlling this issues is controlling the cities human beings rights! The sad part of this panhandling debate is….we must provide some type of playing arena for those who are homeless.

By Brad

August 15, 2005 12:35 PM | Link to this

Excellent comment by Steve. At least some people out there have compassion. Good analogy by PM too. If a man is in the gutter asking for help, he doesn’t belong there. And I don’t care if it was HIS FAULT for getting there. So many folks act like they care, but this issue has obviously drawn a line straight down the middle of the city. Now we know where people really stand on this issue. And if you ask me its just plain sad. I asked a co-worker what his stance on this was, and his answer was that we should KILL all the homeless. I thought that was an EXTREMELY INSENSITIVE thing to say! (eat your heart out Neal Boortz) I didn’t take it seriously, but still it makes you wonder why we look down on these people as if they were just animals. Most of us don’t know what its like to be in their shoes. What kind of addictions they have, etc. It must be a terrible thing.

—Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Matthew 5:5

—Whoever gives only a cup of cold water to one of these little ones to drink because he is a disciple—amen, I say to you, he will surely not lose his reward. Matthew 10:42

By Thompson

August 15, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

The city should have no panhandling zones. How can the city diminish its economic progress for a minority of people who feed on that econmy?
For more than two decades, I have seen the panhandlers pop into and out of shelters and AA,and for the most part, they have been enabled, not helped to improve. As long as we pay our toll to panhandlers, there will be panhandlers. Treatment for psychological illnesses and substance abuse is what they need, not black politicians trading upon the panhandlers so that they can continue to benefit from racial turmoil.

By Randi

August 15, 2005 12:52 PM | Link to this

Panhandlers believe they have a right to panhandle. Well, we have a right not to be panhandled, harrassed, or otherwise encroached upon while going about our daily lives. These panhandlers breed homelessness, drugs and crime. And yes, if they don’t ask for it they will resort to stealing for it. We need to outlaw panhandling altogether because there are other methods to provide food and shelter for those truly in need. Further, the City of Atlanta will be better served for it!

By Tom

August 15, 2005 12:56 PM | Link to this

I agree that panhandling should be made illegal. In fact, while city council is at it they should make drug dealing illegal too. As a downtown resident I am asked, “Need some Weed?” as often as “Got a Quarter?” In one fell swoop we would be rid of a majority of the scourge that plague our streets. Wait… Oh I’m sorry, I’ve just been informed that drug dealing is already illegal, even in non-tourist areas. Well then, if you’ll excuse I’m off to call the police about this.

By Ms. Mac

August 15, 2005 01:04 PM | Link to this

I think that the city should have a huge job fair at the GWCC and target employing the homeless. I’m sure that there are some grants and other funding out there to help with this endeavor — put them to work!

By Jacob

August 15, 2005 01:13 PM | Link to this

First:

As someone who actually has been active in the civil rights movement, its fascinating how this issue is being made a race issue.

As an African-American, I certainly don’t mind helping the sincere “least of these”, but what about those who stand at every corner with a short story to tell? Most times when I’ve offered to buy homeless a meal—I’m usually turned down flat. One thirsty homeless man in West End a few years ago demanded Sprite rather than a bottled water, and every time I’m approached with a hard-luck story to explain the need for spare change to ride MARTA, I will usually offer to pay the token—or advise them to ask MARTA employees if they could permit them to enter the gate—it is always met with resistance, which makes it quite clear, many of them don’t want help, just cash.

But obviously there are some homeless that are meek, humble, and truly appreciative of any help that comes their way. They are clearly not assertive, but sincere efforts are definitely not helped with the in-your-face level of panhandling that is the norm.

This is a challenging issue, and I hope that it can be resolved soon

By Jeffrey

August 15, 2005 01:40 PM | Link to this

I work in the downtown area and while I feel bad for those that are homeless I wonder are they doing anything to help themselves. I see those that wash cars and they should be commended for doing work. I do ask myself if they are washing cars for those who work downtown what keeps them from getting a job doing the same thing? I find the majority are just being lazy and sitting around. I see more who seem to be a nuisance than those who are there to do work for the money that is given to them. I agree wholeheartedly with the efforts to remove them from the downtown area. Not because they are homeless and should be shamed. They should be helped however they have to be willing to accept that help and seek it out. Also if there are those out there who say I agree because there are those people who come to the downtown to shop and have fun, not to be asked by someone on every street corner if they have any money. I see personally the homeless that actually work and earn the money they are given and those that just sit on the corner and ask for a handout. Want a real whiff of what the homeless do to our downtown area? Just walk past my office and take a big whiff & you will want to ban them too.

By Anita

August 15, 2005 01:49 PM | Link to this

The poor will ALWAYS be with us. Exactly “where” seems to be the major point of concern. For whatever reason, people come into hard times. But what concerns me most is why we feel a need to house fish, or other exotic animals in zoos for our own viewing pleasure and can’t find a way to house human beings? If a corporation or group of inviduals are receiving government tax incentives, breaks, and support to build anything for the benefit of any city, or state, then that same organization should be required to hire, train, and promote interested homeless seeking to improve their situations. Just like we can build multi-million dollar churchs, and exhibits, we can build hundred thousand dollar housing complexes to provide shelter and training to those in need so they can work at these new establishments. If someone doesn’t want the opportunity to improve themself, then they obviously have mental issues that require assistance beyond what the average citizen can provide and they need to be able to be checked into a metal ward; not a jail.

By jp

August 15, 2005 01:50 PM | Link to this

Why should society continue to “okay” panhandling by doing nothing? There is no incentive for them to get a job. Why should they, when they can make more money (tax free) by accosting those who do work? I think it is a no-brainer about passing the “No Panhandling Ban.” I think officials should go a step further and ban it metro-wide. Every exit around ATL has a panhandler looking for a hand-out (not a hand-up). These people prey on people’s guilt and charity to avoid work!

If homeless people have psych problems, then they should be in a psych facility. Otherwise, the homeless should have the opportunity to learn skills, get jobs, and contribute to society. If ATL officials want to clean up the city, then they need to get a backbone and stop caving in to those who want to make this a “racial issue.� That is completely avoiding the issue!

Why should tourists, or anyone else, go downtown only to be hit up every three steps by aggressive panhandlers, who feel a since of entitlement to beg? This notion of “right to beg” has been fostered because the city has never taken a stand before!

-JP

By Renee

August 15, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

Panhandling should not be banned. Atlanta has many more eyesores that are worse than panhandling. Homelessness is going to exist, deal with it. If someone asks you for money and you don’t want to give it to them say no. And if you are scared that someone will take your money and commit a crime towards you, then maybe your concern is crime in Atlanta and not homelessness. Personally, I never give money ESPECIALLY not to an able bodied man. I just moved from Atlanta, but lived in Atlanta for over 20 years and never had a homeless person bother me. Sure they ask, but I say no and I’m not in fear. What makes them scary to people? Their being homeless? Poor equates crime to some people. Maybe, there are good people who are poor and rich people who are bad and way more scary than any homeless guy. Hmmmmmm

By Dave

August 15, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

There is a lot of talk here about helping the homeless. I don’t work in downtown, so can someone clue me in…is there a shortage of places for homeless people to stay, and a shortage of places for homeless people to get food? I have a suspicion that there is NOT a shortage of either. Providing more of the same is great, but if the homeless aren’t using the resources provided to them, why should WE have to provide them money, in a direct fashion? again, I have a sneaking suspicion that the money given to homeless does not go for foor or shelter, but rather, to support a particular vice.

I can say no to beggars. I’ve done so before. But…if going to the new Aquarium is going to involve running a slalom through beggars, I’ll choose to head to Chattanooga to see the fishies there.

By Linda

August 15, 2005 02:06 PM | Link to this

Some years back while going to school in Detroit, I encountered a “blind” man at a bus stop, playing a guitar, with a cup asking for money. I dropped some money in his cup. He said “bless you” and I felt real good for my small deed. It was winter and the bus was taking too long so I decided to flag down the first cab I saw. Imagine how “good” I felt when the same “blind” man almost knocked me down and took the cab I had just hailed! Never again!

By PM

August 15, 2005 02:53 PM | Link to this

What Would Jesus Do?

By Rhonda K.

August 15, 2005 03:05 PM | Link to this

I know of one panhandler that I’ve seen at Brave’s games and downtown Atlanta since I went to college at Georgia State in 1985! Since I’ve lived in Atlanta, I’ve either worked or went to school in downtown Atlanta, in my opinion, many of the pandhandlers are harassing people. The City of Atlanta has a serious issue at hand, it’ll be interesting to see if they do anything about it.

My mom was working as a temp. helper for our company downtown, and rode Marta to work, she also saw the Marta lady…..

By Midtown Resident

August 15, 2005 03:11 PM | Link to this

I just e-mailed Mayor Franklin:

Dear Mayor Franklin:

Several years ago when I lived in Tampa, FL, the mayor got together with several local religious, community and social services agency leaders to address aggressive panhandling in the downtown business district.

They printed vouchers good for a free taxi ride to any of a wide list of shelters (faith-based and secular) where anyone in need could get a free meal, shower, haircut, clothing, job-training, counseling, whatever they needed.

These vouchers were distributed through employers and businesses throughout the downtown area.

Yes, there were a lot of crumbled up vouchers on the streets for a while, but many people DID take advantage of them, and it did help quell the agressive panhandlers in the area.

By Cory

August 15, 2005 03:23 PM | Link to this

I wonder how many of the homeless advocates have invited a homeless person to his or her house for dinner. How many of them have found a job for a homeless person? How many of the homeless advocates gave a homeless person shelter for the night?

By RC

August 15, 2005 03:37 PM | Link to this

Why is it that the “feel Good” people always want to equate lawlessness to civil rights? Since when was begging a civil right that supercedes someone elses civil right to be left alone? It is not cold or callous to turn down the homeless and I am tired of being told that most homeless are released inmates from the mental ward who were kicked out by the government, Prove it!! If all these bleeding hearts emptied their bank accounts and got a second or third job they could house the homeless, but as always it is just lip service they give. “yea, I got a problem, but I want you to solve it AND pay for it” is what will sink this city and country. What about family? I would bet everyhting that everyone of these homeless people have family SOMEWHERE!!, but why won’t their own family take care of them (see above quotations” So all you advocates for the homeless I challange you to take one oe two home with you to live with your family, after all many have claimed that most homeless are harmless and I know you would feel safe with them in your home with your children.

By anthony dallas

August 15, 2005 03:45 PM | Link to this

I am completely for the ban. I don’t think that because someone else is down on his or her luck gives them the right to uncomfrtably approach a person or persons who just want to enjoy the beauty of down town. I am uncomfortable with bringing my wife in town for a romantic night stroll through town after seeing couples constantly approach by panhandlers asking for the money they’ve earned to take care of their loved ones. The city has shelters, self help organiztions and Church’s who’s doors are always open for anyone who has fallen on hard times and need a helping hand but my pocket is not. I am appauld at organiztions that think that a person should have the right to apporoach another person for money they’ve worked hard for. I thoroughly believe in giving because I do every week and sometimes more but let that be my choice. I would be more comfortable if there were a time of day limit and and that they would have to have signs so that the giver can approach them if they are comfortable. and want to give aid. I should know. I came to Atlanta nearly 20 years ago with no home, job, car or much money. I struggled to provided for and make something of myself without ever begging. So I am sensitive to their plight.

By Russell

August 15, 2005 04:20 PM | Link to this

Get a bunch of buses to park near where these men hang out early every morning and post a sign on the side:FREE LUNCH available to all who board. When you get a full bus, drive them to the outskirts of the city, give them the bag lunches and drive off. Birmingham used this tactic all during the Olympics and it seemed to work well.

By KG

August 15, 2005 04:31 PM | Link to this

Every homeless person/beggar/panhandler that does NOT say the city is helping them should check out the Gateway Center.
I live downtown and run into beggars/panhandlers/homeless people, some friendly, some not, all who should NOT be harrassing me or visitors to Atlanta. A picture should be taken of every homeless person/beggar/panhandler to profile each and every one.
Instead of being taken to jail where they can sleep their stay away, they should be taken to the Gateway Center where each one gets individualized attention to help to become a “WORKING” part of society instead of continuing to be a blight on Atlanta.

By Benin Dakar

August 15, 2005 04:35 PM | Link to this

An ordinance against panhandling is unlikely to stop panhandling among the city’s homeless and other’s who regularly panhandle.

What is needed are more services to take in the homeless and to help those who can be rehabilitated to “get back on their feet� and to help the chronically mentally ill and disabled homeless to have the services needed to stay off the streets.

About two months ago I was in the MLK historic district and a homeless woman actually “ran� to my car as she saw me getting out of my vehicle to go into a fish/seafood restaurant on Auburn Avenue.

The woman asked for money and I told her that I do not give out money, but that if she was hungry that I would buy her a meal, spending no more than about six dollars.

We went into the restaurant and I let her order her meal. The man behind the counter was uncomfortable with her presence, like her knew her.

In retrospect, he might have been a little teed off with me for buying her the meal, because her “success� of finding me to buy her meal this time, might encourage her to frequent his business in hopes of “getting lucky� again.

While the woman waited for her order, she pulled her top up and exposed her breast. She also made a lesbian pass at me, inferring what she would do for me for money.

Needless to say, I have not been back to this fish restaurant.

Who suffers? The business person has lost a customer. And I am robbed of the attractions of the historic MLK area.

Something must be done to stop panhandlers. I am just not convinced that an anti-panhandling law is the solution.

Benin Dakar Duluth, GA

By mike

August 15, 2005 04:38 PM | Link to this

I used to work in a very large hospital in downtown Atlanta, and would see young able bodied people loitering around all day. Invariably several would ask me for money. I’d ask them what the money was for. They usually responded by saying it was for food. I’d let them know that I was on my way to Mcdonalds,and invited them to lunch on me. In 2 years only one took me up on it. As for the rest, they, more often than not, cursed at me. One man threatened to go home, get his Glock and look for me. Anymore, I have no reason to go downtown,so I avoid it, and don’t miss it.

By nicolette

August 15, 2005 04:59 PM | Link to this

Last year approx 32 of my sorority sisters from across the country met for a fun weekend in Atlanta. We were accosted and followed by aggressive panhandlers as we walked from Peachtree street to Underground Atlanta. Many panhandlers asked if we needed directions…when we refused and told them we were O.K. one of the panhandlers threw a can and others cursed us. Needless to say the 32 members which had swelled to 68 the following year decided they would never come to Atlanta for a group tour or fun weekend. (That’s a lot of lost revenue)

I could be wrong but I don’t think these people were Homeless but aggressive con-artist who tried to use intimidation to get money. By the way, on our way to the airport while we discussed how disappointed we were with the trip a homeless woman walked out from under a bridge on 85S in the middle of traffic and gave the finger to those who refused to stop and let her cross. Oh my !!!

By Eugene

August 15, 2005 05:01 PM | Link to this

Can the City Council please just have some guts and vote on this thing so we can move on? Yes or No.

By Jason

August 15, 2005 05:57 PM | Link to this

The last time I went downtown was to meet a friend on a business trip. We were practically accosted on three separate occasions by aggressive panhandlers. I explained to my friend that this is exactly why downtown Atlanta is dying and why downtown Atlanta is losing not only tourist dollars, but business travel and convention dollars. If the city council caves in to these morons who say that banning panhandling is either racist or targets the poor, then the city will REALLY know what lost revenue means. I know one thing: I’ll never go down there again. I’ve hand it.

By J

August 15, 2005 06:03 PM | Link to this

It’s not just a matter of the homeless having a “right” to ask for money. I should have the right not to be called a b**ch or worse because I refuse to acknowledge them or so no to the constant requests for money. I work downtown and one night, taking the Marta train home I had someone try to sell me the “homeless newspaper”, when I declined he called me names and smacked me with the paper. And I should give them the right to ask, I don’t think so!

By Jabari C.

August 15, 2005 07:12 PM | Link to this

So many posts, but I’ll post anyway. I do have a heart for the homeless and would rather not see them jailed, but giving them consequences for their repeated offenses is better than turning the head. I attend GSU and frequent the blocks downtown about 3 or 4 times a week. I’ve been approached for money more times than I can remember, and I’ve even brought food and clothes to the homeless that I recognized. But like many others, I am getting tired of it. With the exact same energy, maybe even less, that they use to ask for money, they can ask for a job, volunteer to sweep a porch, even pick up trash. I mean really, what are the qualifications for picking up trash or being a janitor? And what was the saying in Hollywood Shuffle? “There’s always work at the post office!” I’m not saying that we should be so cold-hearted, but on the real, what we tolerate we will never change. Some have voiced how the aquarium has been built and how that money can go to housing and feeding the homeless. Great idea but for how long? It’s just going to be a magnet for more people to continue to get something for free. If we continue to let them act the way they do, they’ll never see a need to change. I recently went to San Francisco and walked around the entire city for about 6 or 7 hours. I walked through the affluent districts and (naively) through the not so great neighborhoods. As crowded as it was, I was only asked for a handout once, and that was at the end of the day. I attribute that to a mindset that If it’s to be, then it’s up to me. Meaning that if people want something in life, they’re going to work to get it and not solely rely on handouts. I’d be more inspired to give money if I were asked if they could to a job or if I knew of a job. And standing in vacant parallel parking spots does not count.

I think they should be allowed to be downtown, but I think that only in the case that they are proactively asking for money without providing/offering a LEGAL service should they be liable for a crime. Quietly sitting there with a sign doesn’t seem to hurt anyone. Speaking of which, I can’t even remember the last time I saw a sign that said, “Will Work for Food.” What happened to those? Makes ya go hmmmmmmm.

I will still support the homeless in speaking with them and helping where I can in areas of volunteering, but there really has to be some type of measure to make them want to change. Some desire has to erupt to make them realize that this is not the way to survive. Provide a service; receive a wage. Be that wage food, monetary, etc. It’s a wage.

By Ralph

August 15, 2005 07:33 PM | Link to this

I have not problem giving to the poor and homeless. But I don’t want to be harassed either. If these folks are really in need, set up a shelter and facilities. I promise to contribute to the upkeep regularly and in a manner so we can go about the business of giving these folks the knowledge, skills, and abilities to no longer be homeless or needy.

But there is no reliable or valid need for them to be bothering people on the streets. And if we accept it, what does that say about us?

By jennifer

August 16, 2005 02:17 PM | Link to this

I have no pity for someone who CHOSES NOT TO WORK! They should put as much effort into finding a job as they do begging for a hand out. In these days and times WHAT COULD I possibly afford to hand out freely to anyone??!! Time is free and I barely have that!

By Marcia Boone

August 16, 2005 11:39 PM | Link to this

I have not been downtown too much because of all the beggers. Some get aggressive and I have even been cursed at.

I have limitied my downtown to Underground Parking while at the Legislature. Maybe I can venture elsewhere in town and still feel safe.

I have NEVER given money. I hear HS students talk about making money on the week-ends downtown pretending to be poor and homeless. They laugh and think it is easy money. They consider that a job~~

By Ron Martin

August 17, 2005 06:48 AM | Link to this

No one, not even the needy, has a right to harrass and badger other citizens. Panhandling is akin to telemarketing - it’s an unwanted and unwelcome invasion of privacy. Other cities have made this move with some success. Of course, the overriding issue of abject poverty is lost in this debate. More must be done to help those in need live independently -put down that $4 coffee and donate it to an established and trustworthy charity like the United Way.

By SD

August 17, 2005 10:17 AM | Link to this

What about MY rights? I would like to walk from point A to point B downtown without feeling intimidated, harassed or even threatened by people that have been on drugs so long that their brains are fried and they just plain stink. You want downtown revitalized? Who wants to bring their children downtown to see, forget live, this on a daily basis and call it normal? Anyone that gives them actual money isn’t doing anyone any favors. Maybe if they spend a night or two in jail without drugs or alcohol, they will decide downtown isn’t such an easy gig anymore.

By tricey

August 17, 2005 12:46 PM | Link to this

It is is easy to push the homeless out of the downtown areas when you are not homeless. True some of these people could work but what about those that cannot. It is easy to point fingers when you are standing on the grassy side of things. How dare we turn up our noses to those whom have less than we do. Shame on Atlanta. I am sure the visitors to our city have homeless in there hometowns also.

By Edward Beazley

August 17, 2005 06:55 PM | Link to this

If these people were productive and had a job of some kind, they would NOT be on the street begging for their well being. Then they will feel that buming money off somebody is not a JOB.

By Brian Curtis

August 26, 2005 12:22 AM | Link to this

It’s refreshing to see conservatives arguing for their right not to be offended, and Christians insisting they shouldn’t have to look at the poor. What a wondrously diverse society we have!